Quickly Releasable Vest
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to vests, and, more particularly,
to a quickly releasable vest including a buckle assembly.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Vests are configured to cover a torso portion of a user. The vests are
disposed on the shoulder portion of the user by means of cables, buckles and the like. The vests
are of different types such as exercise vests, cooling vests, protective vests and the like. The
protective vests are used to protect the torso portion of the user against an impact. The
protective vests may also be referred to as bulletproof vests. The bullet proof vests include
bullet resistance armor.
[0003] The bulletproof vests for military operations worn by soldiers are
heavier than the bulletproof vests worn by others like police or security guard because the
soldiers need protection from powerful bullets from rifle or machine gun. The soldiers,
according to mission, may also require various accessories such as pouches, magazines, water
carrier, medical kit, small portable walkie-talkie sets and the like which can be positioned or
fixed on the bullet proof vest as per the convenience of the soldier. The various accessories
positioned on the bullet proof vest make the bullet proof vest heavy. During various emergency
military operations such as, evacuation, running fast in forest or going through water, it will be
necessary to quickly separate the vest from the body of the soldier for either better efficiency
or to save his life.
[0004] Thus there is a need for a vest that is capable of being separated easily
from a torso portion of a user.
[0005] A fastener is a hardware device configured to join or affix two or more
objects together. Moreover, the fastener may be used to close a container such as a bag, a box,
or an envelope. The fastener may be configured to removably or permanently join or affix two
or more objects together. The fastener configured to removably join or affix two or more
objects together may be fastened and unfastened as per a user requirement. The fasteners may
be of different types such as a batten, a bolt, a screw, a button, a clip, a buckle and the like.
[0006] The buckle may be configured to removably connect two parts of any
device together. Further, the buckle may be used for connecting opposite ends of a strap
together.
[0007] The buckle may be used in various applications such as in wrist watches,
in clothing belts, in vests and the like. Specifically, in military vests the buckle may be
configured not only to connect the two portions of the vests but also to facilitate protection by
locking the two parts of vests together. Generally, separation of buckle halves requires moving
two release portion of the buckle toward one another with one hand and pulling the buckle
halves apart from each other. Further, such separation of the buckle halves is inconvenient in
emergency conditions. Furthermore, various traditional buckles used in military applications
are unable to be easily detached in emergency conditions.
[0008] Accordingly, there is need for a quickly releasable vest that is capable of
being released quickly and at the same time connection provided by a buckle assembly thereof
is strong. Further, there is need for a quickly releasable vest including a buckle mechanism that
is capable of being easily separated with limited motion of user's hands. Still further, there is
need of a quickly releasable vest including a buckle mechanism that is configured to prevent
accidental release thereof. Moreover, there is a need of quickly releasable vest including a
buckle mechanism that is easy to operate.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the prior art, the
general purpose of the present invention is to provide a quickly releasable vest configured to
include all the advantages of the prior art, and to overcome the drawbacks inherent therein.
[0010] Accordingly, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a quickly
releasable vest, which is capable of being dressed in and separated easily by a user.
[0011] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a quickly
releasable vest, which is capable of being used by the persons such as soldiers, police, security
guards and the like involved in military and other tactical operations.
[0012] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a quickly
releasable vest, which is capable of protecting at least a torso portion of a user.
[0013] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a quickly releasable vest
capable of protecting a torso portion of a user. The quickly releasable vest includes a first torso
panel, a second torso panel, a plurality of plug members, a plurality of socket members and a
quick release mechanism. The plurality of plug members is disposed on the first torso panel.
The plurality of socket members is disposed on the second torso panel. Each of the plurality of
socket members is configured to detachably couple to one of the plurality of plug members
disposed on the first torso panel. The quick release mechanism is disposed on the first torso
panel. The quick release mechanism includes a pull cord and a plurality of connecting tapes.
The pull cord includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. Each of the plurality of
connecting tapes includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of
the each of the plurality of connecting tapes is coupled to the proximal end portion of the pull
cord and the second end portion of the each of the plurality of connecting tapes is coupled to
the one of the plurality of plug members. The quick release mechanism is configured to
separate the first torso panel from the second torso panel.
[0014] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the quickly releasable vest
includes a first torso panel, a second torso panel, a plurality of plug members, a plurality of
socket members and a quick release mechanism. The first torso panel includes a first side
portion and a second side portion. The second torso panel includes a first side portion and a
second side portion. The first side portion of the second torso panel is releasably coupled to the
second side portion of the first torso panel. The plurality of plug members is disposed on the
first side portion of the first torso panel. The plurality of socket members is disposed on the
second side portion of the second torso panel. Each of the plurality of socket members
configured to detachably couple to one of the plurality of plug members disposed on the first
side portion of the first torso panel. The quick release mechanism is disposed on the first torso
panel. The quick release mechanism includes a pull cord and a plurality of connecting tapes.
The pull cord includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. Each of the plurality of
connecting tapes includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of
the each of the plurality of connecting tapes is coupled to the proximal end portion of the pull
cord and the second end portion of the each of the plurality of connecting tapes is coupled to
the one of the plurality of plug members. The quick release mechanism is configured to
separate the first side portion of the first torso panel from the second side portion of the second
torso panel.
[0015] These together with other aspects of the present disclosure, along with
some features of novelty discussed herein, are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto. For a better understanding, operating advantages, and specific objects attained
by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in
which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments.
[0016] An object of the present disclosure is also to provide a quickly releasable
vest that is capable of being released quickly and at the same time connection provided by a
buckle assembly thereof is strong.
[0017] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a quickly releasable vest
including an improved buckle assembly that is robust, strong and yet capable of being released
quickly.
[0018] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a quickly
releasable vest including a buckle assembly, which is capable of being easily separated with
limited motion of user's hands.
[0019] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a quickly
releasable vest including a buckle assembly that is configured to prevent accidental release
thereof.
[0020] Furthermore, yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a
quickly releasable vest including a buckle assembly that is easy to operate.
[0021] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a quickly releasable vest
for protecting a torso portion of a user. The quickly releasable vest includes a self locking
buckle assembly. In various embodiments, the self locking buckle assembly includes a wedge
fork, a ferrule, an elongated strip, and a socket member. An exemplary wedge fork includes a
base portion and a body portion. An exemplary base portion includes a securing means for
securing a webbing thereto. An exemplary body portion includes a pair of legs and a ferrule
guide member. The exemplary pair of legs is adapted to be extending from the base portion.
Each of the exemplary pair of legs includes a leg base portion and a prong. An exemplary
prong includes a notch portion configured thereon. An exemplary ferrule guide member is
adapted to be extending from the base portion and disposed in between the pair of legs. The
exemplary ferrule is adapted to be slidingly disposed on the ferrule guide member. The
exemplary ferrule includes a narrower end portion, a broader end portion extending from the
narrower end portion, and a tape guide member. An exemplary elongated strip includes a
proximal end portion and a distal end portion. An exemplary proximal end portion is connected
to the tape guide member of the ferrule and the distal end portion adapted to be used for
facilitating movement of the ferrule. An exemplary socket member defining a hollow portion
and including a first side portion and a second side portion, each of the first side portion and
the second side portion includes an opening configured thereon. An exemplary opening is
adapted to facilitate removable retaining and locking of the prong of the each of the pair of legs
to the socket member. The exemplary wedge fork in combination with the exemplary ferrule
and the exemplary elongated strip may be disposed on one of a front torso panel and a rear
torso panel and the exemplary socket member may be disposed on other of the front torso
panel and the rear torso panel for facilitating quick release of the quickly releasable vest.
[0022] Although the present disclosure includes descriptions with reference to
specific embodiments, these descriptions are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense.
Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments, will
become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description herein. It is
therefore contemplated that such modifications can be made without departing from the spirit
or scope of the present invention(s) as defined.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The advantages and features of the present invention(s) will become
better understood with reference to the following detailed description and claims taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are identified with like
symbols, and in which:
[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a quickly releasable vest
including a first torso panel and a second torso panels held together by means of a plurality of
plug members and a plurality of socket members, according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a quickly releasable vest
including a first torso panel and a second torso panels separated from each away, according to
an embodiment of the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an outer surface of the first torso
panel of FIG.l , according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a pocket disposed on strips of the
first torso panel and the second torso panel for mounting various accessories, according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an inner surface of a first torso
panel, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of an inner surface of a first torso
panel with a bullet resistant armor, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an outer surface of the second
torso panel of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of an inner surface of a second
torso panel, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of an inner surface of a second
torso panel with a bullet resistant armor, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a plug member and a socket
member separately, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a plug member and a socket
member in fastened position and in released position, according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0035] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a socket member comprising a
spring member, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 1 1 illustrates a perspective view of a plug member and a socket
member in fastened position, wherein the plug member includes a pair of connecting wires,
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a quick release mechanism
disposed on the first torso panel, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a quick release mechanism
disposed on the first torso panel, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a quickly releasable vest
including a first torso panel and a second torso panels held together by means of a plurality of
plug members and a plurality of socket members, according to an another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0040] FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of an outer surface of the first
torso panel of FIG. 14 , according to an another embodiment of the present invention;
[0041] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an outer surface of the second
torso panel of FIG. 14, according to another embodiment of the present invention; and
[0042] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a quick release mechanism
disposed on the first torso panel of FIG. 15, according to an another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0043] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of a self locking buckle assembly
in assembled position, according to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0044] FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of the self locking buckle
assembly of FIG. 1 in disassembled position, according to an embodiment of the present
invention(s);
[0045] FIG. 20a illustrates a perspective view of a wedge fork, according to an
embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0046] FIG. 20b illustrates a top view of the wedge fork depicting one side face
of the wedge fork, according to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0047] FIG. 20c illustrates a top view of the wedge work depicting another side
face of the wedge fork, according to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0048] FIG. 20d illustrates a side view of the wedge fork, according to an
embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0049] FIG. 20e illustrates an end view of the wedge fork, according to an
embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0050] FIG. 21a illustrates a front view of a ferrule in one orientation thereof,
according to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0051] FIG. 21b illustrates a front view of a ferrule in another orientation
thereof, according to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0052] FIG. 21c illustrates one side top view of a ferrule, according to an
embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0053] FIG. 21d illustrates another side top view of the ferrule, according to an
embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0054] FIG. 21e illustrates a side view of the ferrule, according to an
embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0055] FIG. 21f illustrates an end view of the ferrule, according to an
embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0056] FIG. 22a illustrates a perspective view of a socket assembly depicting
one face thereof, according to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0057] FIG. 22b illustrates a perspective view of the socket assembly depicting
another face thereof, according to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0058] FIG. 22c illustrates a front view of the socket assembly depicting
another face thereof, according to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0059] FIG. 22d illustrates a side view of the socket assembly, according to an
embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0060] FIG. 22e illustrates an end side view of the socket assembly, according
to an embodiment of the present invention(s);
[0061] FIG. 23a illustrates a front view of a quickly releasable vest depicting
used position of the self locking buckle assembly, according to an embodiment of the present
invention(s); and
[0062] FIG. 23b illustrates a back view of the quickly releasable vest depicting
used position of the self locking buckle assembly, according to an embodiment of the present
invention(s).
[0063] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the description of
several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0064] The exemplary embodiments described herein detail for illustrative
purposes are subject to many variations in structure and design. It should be emphasized,
however, that the present invention(s) are not limited to a particular quickly releasable vest
and/or buckle assembly, as shown and described. It is understood that various omissions and
substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render
expedient, but these are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing
from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.
[0065] The terms "first," "second," and the like, herein do not denote any order,
quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another, and the
terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence
of at least one of the referenced item.
[0066] The present invention provides a quickly releasable vest capable of
protecting a torso portion of a user. The quickly releasable vest includes a first torso panel, a
second torso panel, a plurality of plug members, a plurality of socket members and a quick
release mechanism. The plurality of plug members is disposed on the first torso panel. The
plurality of socket members is disposed on the second torso panel. Each of the plurality of
socket members is configured to detachably couple to one of the plurality of plug members
disposed on the first torso panel. The quick release mechanism is disposed on the first torso
panel. The quick release mechanism includes a pull cord and a plurality of connecting tapes.
The pull cord includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. Each of the plurality of
connecting tapes includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of
the each of the plurality of connecting tapes is coupled to the proximal end portion of the pull
cord and the second end portion of the each of the plurality of connecting tapes is coupled to
the one of the plurality of plug members. The quick release mechanism is configured to
separate the first torso panel from the second torso panel.
[0067] Referring to FIG.l and FIG. 2, a quickly releasable vest 100 configured
to cover a torso portion of a user in an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. The
quickly releasable vest 100 includes a first torso panel 200, a second torso panel 300, a
plurality of plug members 400, a plurality of socket members 500 and a quick release
mechanism 600 (depicted in FIG. 2).
[0068] Further referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 5B, the first torso panel 200
configured to cover either a front side or a rear side of a torso portion of a user, is shown. In
one embodiment of the present invention the first torso panel 200 may cover the front side of
the torso portion of the user. In another embodiment of the present invention the first torso
panel 200 may cover the rear side of the torso portion of the user. The first torso panel 200 may
be made by over lined layers of sewn fabric. In one embodiment of the present invention the
first torso panel 200 may accompany a plurality of strips 202, a pair of shoulder pads 206, a
pair of shoulder straps 208, a flap 210 and a bullet resistance armor 212.
[0069] The plurality of strips 202 may be disposed both vertically and
horizontally on the first torso panel to accommodate various accessories such as pouches,
magazines, water carrier, medical kit, small portable walkie-talkie sets and other similar
equipments which can be positioned or fixed as per the convenience of the user. The
construction of the plurality of strips 202 permits positioning of accessory pouch etc. at
different locations on the first torso panel 200. More specifically, FIG.4 illustrates a pocket 204
disposed on the plurality of strips 202 of the first torso panel 200 for mounting various
accessories. The pair of shoulder straps 208 is disposed on shoulder portions of the first torso
panel 200. The shoulder pad 206 is configured to cover a substantial portion of the shoulder
strap 208. The shoulder pad 206 is configured to provide cushioning to shoulder portions of the
user. As depicted in FIG. 2, the flap 210 is configured to cover a portion of the quick release
mechanism 600. The flap 210 may also include the plurality of strips 202. The bullet resistance
armor 212 may be disposed on the first torso panel 200. In one embodiment of the present
invention, as shown in FIG. 5B the bullet resistant armor 212 may be disposed on an inner
surface of the first torso panel 200. In another embodiment of the present invention the bullet
resistant armor 212 may be disposed on an outer surface of the first torso panel 200. The first
torso panel 200 and the second torso panel 300 are configured to cover the torso portion of the
user.
[0070] With reference to FIG. 6, FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b, the second torso panel
300 configured to cover either a rear side or a front side of a torso portion of a user, is shown.
In one embodiment of the present invention the second torso panel 300 may cover the rear side
of the torso portion of the user. In another embodiment of the present invention the second
torso panel 300 may cover the front side of the torso portion of the user. In one embodiment of
the present invention the second torso panel 300 may accompany a plurality of strips 202, a
pair of shoulder straps 208, a flap 210 and a bullet resistance armor 212.
[0071] The plurality of strips 202 may be disposed both vertically and
horizontally on the second torso panel 300 to accommodate various accessories such as
pouches, magazines, water carrier, medical kit, small portable walkie-talkie sets and other
similar equipments which can be positioned or fixed as per the convenience of a wearer. The
construction of the plurality of strips 202 permits positioning of accessory pouch etc. at
different locations on the second torso panel 300. More specifically, FIG.4 illustrates the
pocket 204 disposed on the plurality of strips 202 of the second torso panel 300 for mounting
various accessories. The pair of shoulder straps 208 may be disposed on shoulder portions of
the second torso panel 300. The flap 210 is configured to pivotally cover a lower portion of the
second torso panel 300. The flap 210 may also include the plurality of strips 202. The bullet
resistance armor 212 may be disposed on the second torso panel 200. In one embodiment of
the present invention, as shown in FIG. 7B the bullet resistant armor 212 may be disposed on
an inner surface of the second torso panel 300 of the quickly releasable vest 100. In another
embodiment of the present invention the bullet resistant armor 212 may be disposed on an
outer surface of the second torso panel 300 of the quickly releasable vest 100.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 1 1 the quickly releasable vest 100
further includes the plurality of plug members 400. The plurality of plug members 400 is
disposed on the first torso panel 200. In one embodiment of the present invention, the plurality
of plug members 400 is disposed on the shoulder strap 208 of the first torso panel 200. In one
embodiment of the present invention each of the plurality of plug members 400 includes an eye
hook 402 and a tongue 404. The eye hook 402 includes an eye opening 406. In one
embodiment of the present invention the eye opening 406 is rectangular in configuration. The
tongue 404 includes a pair of engaging legs 408. The engaging legs 408 are curved inwardly
towards each other. In another embodiment of the present invention each of the plurality of
plug members 400 further includes a pair of connecting wires 410 (shown in FIG. 11) ) . Each
of the pair of connecting wires 410 is configured to connect a side portion of the eye hook 402
to a side portion of the tongue 404. The tongue 404 is configured to be received in one of the
plurality of socket members 500 disposed on the second torso panel 300. Although in the
present invention each of the plurality of plug members 400 have been described with respect
to particular embodiments but they are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present
invention to the precise forms disclosed. Each of the plurality of plug members 400 is
configured to detachably couple to one of the plurality of socket members 500 disposed on the
second torso panel 300.
[0073] Referring to FIG. 8, FIG. 9 FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 the plurality of socket
members 500 configured to be detachably couple to the plurality of plug members 400, is
shown. The plurality of socket members 500 is disposed on the second torso panel 300. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of socket members 500 is disposed on the
shoulder strap 208 of the second torso panel 300. In one embodiment of the present invention
the each of the plurality of socket members 500 includes a base plate 502 and a rigid head 504.
The rigid head 504 is disposed perpendicularly to the base plate 502. The rigid head 504 is
configured to hook the eye hook 402. Further, the rigid head 504 is also configured to receive
the tongue 404. In another embodiment of the present invention the each of the plurality of
socket members 500 further includes a spring member 506. The spring member 506 is
disposed on the base plate 502 of the each of the plurality of socket members 500. In one
embodiment of the present invention the spring member 506 is hingedly connected to the base
plate 502 of the socket members 500. . The spring member 506 is configured to force out the
eye hook 402 from the rigid head 504 when the tongue 404 is pulled out of the rigid head 504.
The tongue 404 may be pulled out of the rigid head 504 by means of the quick release
mechanism 600.
[0074] Now referring to FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the quick release mechanism 600
disposed on the first torso panel 200, is shown. The quick release mechanism 600 includes a
pull cord 602 and a plurality of connecting tapes 604. The pull cord 602 has a proximal end
portion 606 and a distal end portion 608. Each of the plurality of connecting tapes 604 includes
a first end portion 610 and a second end portion 612. The first end portion 610 of the each of
the plurality of connecting tapes 604 is coupled to the proximal end portion 606 of the pull
cord 602 and the second end portion 612 of the each of the plurality of connecting tapes 604 is
coupled to the one of the plurality of plug members 400. More specifically, the each of the
plurality of connecting tapes 604 is coupled to one of the tongue 404 of the plurality of plug
members 400. Further, the distal end portion 608 of the pull cord 602 may be coupled to a grip
(not shown). In one embodiment of the present invention, the pull cord 602 of the quick release
mechanism 600 is positioned at the lower portion of the first torso panel 200 for easy and quick
access by the user for the purpose of quick release of the first torso panel 200 from the second
torso panel 300. In one embodiment of the present invention, the pull cord 602 of the quick
release mechanism 600 may be covered by the flap 210 of the first torso panel 200. The pull
cord 602 is configured to separate the first torso panel 200 and the second torso panel 300 from
each other, when the pull cord 602 is pulled downwards.
[0075] In use, while dressing in the quickly releasable vest 100, the wearer has to
place the first torso panel 200 over the second torso panel 300 so that the inner faces of both
the first torso panel 200 and the second torso panel 300 are placed one over the other and fully
aligned with each other. Thereafter the eye hook 402 of the plurality of plug members is
hooked to the rigid head 504 of the plurality of socket members 500, and then the tongue 404
of the plurality of plug members is inserted into the rigid head 504 of the plurality of socket
members 500 over the eye hook 402. In one embodiment of the present invention the shoulder
straps 208 of the second torso panel 300 are inserted partially in a slot (not shown) disposed on
the first torso panel 200 so that the shoulder strap 208 of the first torso panel 200 may be
placed over the shoulder strap 208 of the second torso panel 300. Thereafter the eye hook 402
of the plurality of plug members is hooked to the rigid head 504 of the plurality of socket
members 500, and then the tongue 404 of the plurality of plug members 400 is inserted into the
rigid head 504 of the plurality of socket members 500 over the eye hook 402. This process is
to be repeated mutatis mutandis at all the points where the first torso panel 200 is releasably
attached with the second torso panel 300.
[0076] Similarly, while separating the quickly releasable vest 100 from the torso
portion of the user, the user has to drag the pull cord 602 downwards by applying downward
pressure on the connecting tapes 604. Accordingly, in one embodiment of the present
invention, the connecting tapes 604 pulls the tongue 404 of the plurality of plug members 400
out of the rigid head 504 and while being pulled out, the tongue 404 also pulls out the eye hook
402 by means of the pair of connecting wires 410. In another embodiment of the present
invention, the connecting tapes 604 pull the tongue 404 of the plurality of plug members 400
out of the rigid head 504. As, the tongue 404 is pulled out of the rigid head 504, the spring
member 506 forces the eye hook 402 to be unhooked from the rigid head 504.
[0077] FIG. 14 to FIG. 17 illustrates another embodiment of a quickly releasable
vest in accordance with the present invention. More specifically, FIG. 14 illustrates the quickly
releasable vest 700 configured to cover a torso portion of a user. The quickly releasable vest
700 includes a first torso panel 800, a second torso panel 900, a plurality of plug members
1000, a plurality of socket members 1100 and a quick release mechanism 1200.
[0078] Now referring to FIG. 15, the first torso panel 800 configured to cover
either a front side or a rear side of a torso portion of a user, is shown. In one embodiment of the
present invention the first torso panel 800 may cover the front side of the torso portion of the
user. In another embodiment of the present invention the first torso panel 800 may cover the
rear side of the torso portion of the user. The first torso panel 800 includes a first side portion
802 and a second side portion 804. The first torso panel 800 may be made by over lined layers
of sewn fabric. In one embodiment of the present invention the first torso panel 800 may
accompany the plurality of strips 202, the pair of shoulder pads 206, the pair of shoulder straps
208, the flap 210 and the bullet resistance armor 212. The plurality of strips 202, the pair of
shoulder pads 206, the pair of shoulder straps 208, the flap 210 and the bullet resistance armor
212 are configured and disposed on the first torso panel 800 similarly as they are configured
and disposed on the first torso panel 200. The first torso panel 800 and the second torso panel
900 are configured to cover the torso portion of the user.
[0079] As shown in FIG. 16, the second torso panel 900 is configured to cover
either a rear side or a front side of a torso portion of a user. In one embodiment of the present
invention the second torso panel 900 may cover the rear side of the torso portion of the user. In
another embodiment of the present invention the second torso panel 900 may cover the front
side of the torso portion of the user. The second torso panel 900 includes a first side portion
902 and a second side portion 904. The first side portion 902 of the second torso panel 900 is
releasably coupled to the second side portion 804 of the first torso panel 800. In one
embodiment of the present invention the first side portion 902 of the second torso panel 900 is
releasably coupled to the second side portion 804 of the first torso panel 800 by means of an
adhesive tape 906. In another embodiment of the present invention, the first side portion 902 of
the second torso panel 900 is permanently coupled to the second side portion 804 of the first
torso panel 800. The first side portion 902 of the second torso panel 900 may be permanently
coupled to the second side portion 804 of the first torso panel 800 by means of stitching or any
other means known in the art. In one embodiment of the present invention the second torso
panel 900 may accompany the plurality of strips 202, the pair of shoulder straps 208, the flap
210 and the bullet resistance armor 212. The plurality of strips 202, the pair of shoulder straps
208, the flap 210 and the bullet resistance armor 212 are configured and disposed on the
second torso panel 900 similarly as they are configured and disposed on the second torso panel
300 of the quickly releasable vest 100.
[0080] The quickly releasable vest 700 further includes the plurality of plug
members 1000. The plurality of plug members 1000 is similar to the plurality of plug members
400 explained above in the first embodiment of the present embodiment. The plurality of plug
members 1000 is disposed on the first side portion 802 of the first torso panel 800. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the first side portion 802 of the first torso panel 800 is on
the left hand side of a right handed user. In another embodiment of the present invention, the
first side portion 802 of the first torso panel 800 is on the right hand side of a left handed user.
Each of the plurality of plug members 1000 is configured to be detachably couple to one of the
plurality of socket members 1100. The plurality of socket members 1100 are similar to the
plurality of socket members 500 explained above in the first embodiment of the present
invention. The plurality of socket members 1100 is disposed on the second side portion 904 of
the second torso panel 900. The first side portion 802 of the first torso panel 800 may be
separated from the second side portion 904 of the second torso panel 900 by means of the
quick release mechanism 1200 (shown in FIG. 17). The quick release mechanism 1200 is also
similar to the quick release mechanism 600 explained in the first embodiment of the present
invention. The quick release mechanism 1200 is disposed on the first torso panel 800.
[0081] Referring to FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, a self locking buckle assembly 1300
configured to removably connect two parts of any device together, is shown. The self locking
buckle assembly 1300 includes a wedge fork 1400, a ferrule 1500, an elongated strip 1600 and
a socket assembly 1700.
[0082] Now referring to FIG. 18, FIG. 19 and FIGS. 20a to 20e, the wedge fork
1400 may include a base portion 1402 and a body portion 1404. The base portion 1402
includes a securing means 1406a and a webbing guide 1406b. In one embodiment, the securing
means 1406a is an eye hook 1406a. However, the present invention is not limited to any
particular form of the securing means 1406a used. The base portion 1402 is configured to
secure a webbing 1408 to the webbing guide 1406b. The webbing 1408 may be configured to
be secured to one of the two parts to be secured together. The webbing 1408 may be a load
bearing webbing. The body portion 1404 includes a pair of legs, such as a leg 1410a and a leg
1410b (hereinafter collectively referred to as "pair of legs 1410") and a ferrule guide member
1412. Each of the pair of legs 1410 is configured to be flexible in nature. More specifically,
each of the pair of legs 1410 and the ferrule guide member 1412 is extending from the base
portion 1402. Each of the pair of legs 1410 includes a leg base portion 1414 and a prong 1416.
[0083] The prong 1416 includes an operative upper face 1418. The upper face
1418 of the prong 1416 includes a notch portion 1420 configured therein. In one embodiment
of the present invention, the notch portion 1420 is configured to be arcuate in shape. Further, in
one embodiment of the present invention, the notch portion 1420 includes a proximal end
portion 1422 and a distal end portion 1424. In one embodiment of the present invention, the
distal end portion 1424 of the notch portion 1420 may include a cut-out portion (not shown)
adapted to facilitate locking of the ferrule 1500 thereto. Further, the ferrule guide member 1412
includes an elongated central notch portion 1414a. The ferrule guide member 1412 is
configured to act as a guide for the ferrule 1500.
[0084] Now referring to FIG. 18, FIG. 19 and FIGS. 21a to 21f, the ferrule
1500 includes a narrower end portion 1502, a broader end portion 1504, a tape guide member
1506, an operative front face 1508 and an operative back face 1510. The narrower end portion
1502 includes a first eye hook 1512 and a second eye hook 1514. The first eye hook 1512 is
extending perpendicularly from the operative front face 1508 of the ferrule 1500 and the
second eye hook 1514 is extending perpendicularly from the operative back face 1510 of the
ferrule 1500. The broader end portion 1504 is configured to be extending and expanding from
the narrower end portion 1502. The broader end portion 1504 includes a third eye hook 1516
and a pair of slide members, such as a slide member 1518a and a slide member 1518b
(hereinafter collectively referred to as "pair of slide members 1518"). In one embodiment of
the present invention, the broader end portion 1504 of the ferrule 1500 may include a locking
means on either side thereof corresponding to the cut-out portion of the distal end portion 1424
of the notch portion 1420 of the prong 1416 for facilitating removable locking with the prong
1416. The third eye hook 1516 is configured to be extending perpendicularly from the
operative back face 1510 of the ferrule 1500. Similarly, each of the pair of slide members 1518
is extending perpendicularly from end portions of the broader end portion 1504. More
specifically, each of the pair of slide members 1518 is extending perpendicularly from the
operative back face 1510. The ferrule 1500 is configured to be slidingly disposed on the ferrule
guide member 1412. More specifically, the ferrule 1500 is slidingly disposed on the ferrule
guide member 1412 by means of the second eye hook 1514 and the third eye hook 1516.
Further, the pair of slide members 1518 is configured to be slidingly disposed in the notch
portion 1420 of the prong 1416. More specifically, the pair of slide members 1518 is
configured to be slidingly moved along the notch portion 1420 of the prong 1416 in a way such
that the movement of the pair of slide members 1518 enables movement of the prong 1416 of
the pair of legs 1410. Further, movement of the ferrule 1500, and accordingly movement of the
pair of slide members 1518 towards the leg base portion 1414 enables movement of the prong
1416 of the pair of legs 1410 towards each other and movement of the ferrule, and accordingly
movement of the pair of slide members 1518 away from the leg base portion 1414 enables
movement of the prong 1416 of the pair of legs 1410 away from each other. Further, the ferrule
1500 is configured to be secured to the elongated strip 1600.
[0085] Now referring back to FIG. 19, the elongated strip 1600 includes a
proximal end portion 1602 and a distal end portion 1604. The proximal end portion 1602 is
connected to the tape guide member 1506 of the ferrule 1500. The distal end portion 1604 is
firstly passed through the first eye hook 1512 of the ferrule 1500 and then passed through the
eye hook 1406a of the wedge fork 1400. The distal end portion 1604 of the elongated strip
1600 may be used for the movement of the ferrule 1500.
[0086] Now referring to FIG. 18, FIG 19 and FIG. 22a to FIG. 22e, the socket
member 1700 includes an upper portion 1702, a lower portion 1704, a first side portion 1706, a
second side portion 1708, a first end portion 1710 and a second end portion 1712. The upper
portion 1702, the lower portion 1704, the first side portion 1706 and the second side portion
1708 are configured to define a hollow portion there between. The first side portion 1706 and
the second side portion 1708 include an opening 1714 configured thereon. The opening 1714 is
configured to retain and lock the prong 1416 of the each of the pair of legs 1410 therein. The
socket member 1700 includes an eye hook 1716 configured on the first end portion 1710. The
eye hook 1716 is configured to secure a webbing 1718 thereto. Further the webbing 1718 is
configured to be secure to one of the two items secured to each other. The webbing 1718 may
be a load bearing webbing. The upper portion 1702 includes a rectangular cut portion 1720
configured thereon. The rectangular cut portion 1720 is configured to be accommodating a
portion of the ferrule 1500.
[0087] Further, referring to FIG 23a and FIG 23b a quickly releasable vest 1800
including the self locking buckle assembly 1300 is disclosed. In various embodiments, the
quickly releasable vest 1800 may be or comprise the vest 100 and/or the vest 700. As shown
in the FIG. 23a and FIG. 23b, the wedge fork 1400 along with the ferrule 1500 and the
elongated strip 1600 may be secured on one of a front torso panel 1802 or a rear torso panel
1804 and the socket member 1700 may be disposed on one of the front torso panel 1802 or the
rear torso panel 1804 to which the wedge fork 1400 is not secured. Further, the elongated strip
1600 may be secured to a pull down sling 1806 of the bullet proof vest 1800. The pull down
sling 1806 may be pulled downwards for the quick release of the self locking buckle assembly
1300.
[0088] In use, generally the wedge fork 1400 along with the ferrule 1500 and
the elongated strip 1600 may be connected to one part of a device, such as the front torso of
panel 1802 of the bullet proof vest 1800, and the socket member 1700 may be connected to
another part of the device, such as the rear torso panel 1804, that is to be secured with the first
part of the device, such as the front torso panel 1802 of the bullet roof vest 1800. Firstly, the
wedge fork 1400 may be inserted in the socket member 1700 such that the prong 1416 of the
pair of legs 1410 may be locked in the opening 1714 of the first side portion 1706 and the
second side portion 1708 of the socket member 1700. In this way first locking is achieved
between the prong 1416 of the pair of legs 1410 of the wedge fork 1400 and the socket
member 1700. Further, the ferrule 1500 may be pushed away from the leg base portion 1414,
i.e. in the upward direction, enables movement of the prong 1416 of the pair of legs 1410 away
from each other. More specifically, upward movement of the pair of slide members 1518
towards the distal end portion 1424 enables locking of the pair of slide members 1518 in the
distal end portion 1424 of the of the prong 1416 of the wedge fork 1400. Further, this locking
of the pair of slide members 1518 in the distal end portion 1424 of the notch enables stronger
locking of the prong 1416 of the pair of legs 1410 of the wedge fork 1400 and the socket
assembly 1700. In this way the device, such as the bullet proof vest 1800, may withstand more
load then without use of the self locking buckle assembly 1300.
[0089] Further, for releasing of the self locking buckle assembly 1300, the user
may have to move the elongated strip 1600, in a downward direction or the direction towards
the leg base portion 1414. Further, in one embodiment of the present invention, when the
elongated strip 1600 is connected to the pull down sling 1806, downward movement or the
movement towards the leg base portion 1414, of the pull down sling 1806 enables downward
movement of the ferrule 1500. In such a way, the pair of slide members 1518 moves towards
the leg base portion 1414 and thereby releasing of the locking of the pair of slide members
1518 in the distal end portion 1424 of the notch portion 1420 of the wedge fork 1400.
Accordingly, further downward movement of the ferrule 1500 or further movement the pair of
slide members 1518 moves towards the leg base portion 1414, enables movement of the prong
1416 towards each other and thereby releasing locking of the prong 1416 of the pair of legs
1410 with the opening 1714 of the first side portion 1706 and the second side portion 1708 of
the socket member 1700. Accordingly, the wedge fork 1400 may be separated from the socket
member 1700, and thereby separating the front torso of panel 1802 from the rear torso panel
1804.
[0090] Various embodiments of the present invention offer following
advantages. The self locking buckle assembly, as described herein, is capable of being released
quickly and at the same time connection provided by the self locking buckle assembly is
strong. Further, the self locking buckle assembly is capable of being easily separated with
limited motion of user's hands. Furthermore, the self locking buckle assembly is configured to
prevent accidental release thereof. Still further, the self locking buckle assembly is simple in
construction and easy to use.
[0091] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present
invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not
intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and
obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The
embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present
invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best
utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited
to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of
equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but such
omissions and substitutions are intended to cover the application or implementation without
departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims:
1. A quickly releasable vest for protecting a torso portion of a user, the quickly
releasable vest comprising:
a self locking buckle assembly, the self locking buckle assembly comprising:
a wedge fork, the wedge fork comprising,
a base portion comprising a securing means for securing a webbing thereto;
a body portion, the body portion comprising,
a pair of legs extending from the base portion, each of the pair of legs
comprising a leg base portion and a prong, wherein the prong comprises
a notch portion configured thereon; and
a ferrule guide member extending from the base portion and disposed in
between the pair of legs;
a ferrule adapted to be slidingly disposed on the ferrule guide member, the ferrule
comprising a narrower end portion, a broader end portion extending from the narrower
end portion, and a tape guide member;
an elongated strip having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the
proximal end portion connected to the tape guide member of the ferrule and the distal
end portion adapted to be used for facilitating movement of the ferrule; and
a socket member defining a hollow portion and comprising a first side portion and a
second side portion, each of the first side portion and the second side portion
comprising an opening configured thereon, wherein the opening is adapted to facilitate
removable retaining and locking of the prong of the each of the pair of legs to the
socket member,
wherein the wedge fork in combination with the ferrule and the elongated strip is
disposed on one of a front torso panel and a rear torso panel and the socket member
disposed on other of the front torso panel and the rear torso panel for facilitating quick
release of the quickly releasable vest.
2. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the webbing guide means is an
eye hook.
3. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the pair of legs is flexible.
4. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the notch portion is configured
on an operative upper surface of the prong.
5. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the notch portion is configured
to be arcuate in shape.
6. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the notch portion includes a
proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein the distal end portion includes a locking
means for facilitating locking of the ferrule thereto.
7. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the ferrule guide member
includes an elongated central notch portion configured thereon.
8. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the narrower end portion of the
ferrule comprises a first eye hook and a second eye hook, wherein the first eye hook is
extending perpendicularly from an operative front face of the ferrule and the second eye hook
is extending perpendicularly from an operative back face of the ferrule.
9. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the broader end portion includes
a third eye hook and a pair of slide members, wherein the third eye hook is configured to be
extending perpendicularly from an operative back face of the ferrule, and, wherein each of the
pair of slide members is extending perpendicularly from end portions of the broader end
portion from the operative back face of the ferrule.
10. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the ferrule is slidingly disposed
on the ferrule guide member by means of the second eye hook and the third eye hook.
11. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the broader end portion of the
ferrule comprises a locking means disposed on either side thereof corresponding to the cut-out
portion the distal end portion of the notch portion of the prong for facilitating removable
locking with the prong.
12. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the pair of slide members is
configured to be slidingly disposed in the notch portion of the prong.
13. The quickly releasable vest of claim 12, wherein the sliding movement of the
pair of slide members in the notch portion enables movement of the prong of the pair of legs.
14. The quickly releasable vest of claim 13, wherein movement of the pair of slide
members towards the leg base portion enables movement of the prong of the pair of legs
towards each other and movement of the pair of slide members away from the leg base portion
enables movement of the prong of the pair of legs away from each other.
15. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the distal end portion of the
elongated strip is passed through the first eye hook of the ferrule and the eye hook of the
wedge fork.
16. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein an upper portion of the socket
member comprising a rectangular cut-out portion configured thereon for accommodating at
least a portion of the ferrule.
17. The quickly releasable vest of claim 1, wherein the socket member comprises a
second eye hook for facilitating securing of a webbing thereto.