Coupling system

Abstract

A coupling system includes a bridge and a sleeve. The bridge has a first end and a second end, and in some embodiments includes a contoured edge at the second end and/or a row of openings disposed between the first end and the second end. The sleeve defines an internal pocket configured to receive the first end of the bridge through a sleeve opening. A closure mechanism on the sleeve is configured to selectively retain the bridge within the internal pocket. In some embodiments, the closure mechanism fastens behind the contoured edge at the second end of the bridge to resist withdrawal of the bridge from the sleeve. In other embodiments, the closure mechanism includes mating portions configured to fasten together within a selected opening of the bridge to inhibit relative sliding movement between the sleeve and the bridge. The coupling system may be integrated into or coupled to a belt system, a cummerbund, a chest rig, or other load-bearing system.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.