Tourniquet belt
Inventors
Steinbaugh, John • Barofsky, Andrew
Assignees
Publication Number
US-10321917-B2
Publication Date
2019-06-18
Expiration Date
2035-06-15
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Abstract
Embodiments provide a tourniquet that may be used as a daily wear belt. A tourniquet belt may include an elongate belt having a first end and a second free end; a securing element coupled to the elongate belt at the first end of the elongate belt; and a separate tightening element coupled to the elongate belt, wherein the tightening element is selectively actuable to tighten or loosen the tourniquet belt.
Core Innovation
Embodiments disclosed herein provide a tourniquet that may also be used as a daily wear belt. The tourniquet belt includes an elongate belt with a first end and a second free end, a securing element coupled at the first end, and a separate tightening element that is selectively actuable to tighten or loosen the belt. This design allows the belt to function both as an everyday wearable belt and as an effective tourniquet in emergencies.
The problem being addressed arises from the critical need for a properly constructed tourniquet that is both functional in medical emergency scenarios and conveniently accessible for users such as military personnel, emergency responders, and civilians. Traditional tourniquets may not be readily available or convenient to carry and use quickly. Thus, integrating a tourniquet into a commonly worn article of clothing such as a belt provides quick access without requiring additional equipment.
The disclosure further details mechanisms, materials, and structural arrangements that improve the usability and comfort of the tourniquet belt. These innovations include the use of durable and flexible materials for the belt, various securing and tightening mechanisms such as friction buckles, ratcheting buckles, ladder straps, and protective covers. Moreover, the design addresses issues seen in conventional tourniquets, such as uncomfortable bunching of materials that may damage tissue, by arranging components to minimize bunching and pressure points during use.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes one independent claim outlining a tourniquet belt with specific structural and functional features. The claim covers inventive aspects relating to the belt construction, securing, and tightening mechanisms.
Tourniquet belt construction with ladder strap and securing element
The invention includes an elongate belt with a ladder strap coupled at a first end of the ladder strap. A securing element is coupled to the elongate belt at the first end and configured to secure the second free end of the belt.
Separate tightening element comprising a ratcheting buckle engaging the ladder strap
A distinct tightening element is coupled to the belt and includes a ratcheting buckle configured to engage the ladder strap. The ratcheting buckle is selectively actuable to tighten or loosen the tourniquet belt.
Interior ladder strap passing through the belt to engage the tightening element
The ladder strap is coupled to an interior surface of the belt and extends through the belt to engage with the tightening element, allowing effective tightening without bunching of outer layers.
In summary, the independent claim covers a tourniquet belt formed of an elongate belt with secured ladder strap, a securing element at one end, and a ratcheting buckle tightening mechanism engaging the ladder strap passing through the belt interior. These features collectively enable the belt to function as both a wearable belt and an effective tourniquet.
Stated Advantages
The tourniquet belt reduces bunching and pressure points against the wearer's skin during tightening, improving comfort and efficacy.
Positioning the ratcheting buckle near the center front minimizes interference with equipment traditionally worn on the belt by professionals such as law enforcement or military personnel.
The protective cover over the ratcheting buckle prevents accidental actuation and protects the buckle from damage during daily wear.
The inclusion of loops at the free end and/or securing end facilitates easier tightening, including self-application using the thumb or teeth.
The design allows the tourniquet to be worn as a conventional belt, thus ensuring immediate availability without additional burden to the wearer.
Documented Applications
The tourniquet belt is intended for use by law enforcement officers, soldiers, emergency responders, and civilians to provide immediate tourniquet capability in medical emergencies.
It can also be used as a waist strap on backpacks or removable waist bands that double as tourniquets.
The tourniquet belt may serve as a shoulder strap for purses, duffel bags, or equipment.
It may function as a rifle sling providing emergency tourniquet access for hunters and soldiers.
In some embodiments, the tourniquet belt may serve as a harness for securing a wearer to a structure, functioning as a portable seatbelt or life-saving attachment point for aerial workers or sports enthusiasts.
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